Pipe Support System, And Method Of Use

ABSTRACT

A pipe support system. The pipe support system comprises a first wedge block and a second opposing wedge block. Each of the blocks comprises a base having walls, and forming an angled top surface. The angled top surfaces face one another and are configured to support a joint or section of pipe along an outer diameter of the pipe. Beneficially, the distance or spacing between the wedge blocks may be adjusted by an operator to accommodate sections of pipe having different diameters. A method for supporting a section of pipe is also provided.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Ser. No. 62/695,975 filedJul. 10, 2018. That application is entitled “Pipe Support System andMethod of Use.” This application is incorporated herein in its entiretyby reference.

The application also claims the benefit of U.S. Ser. No. 62/780,977filed Dec. 18, 2018. That application is also entitled “Pipe SupportSystem and Method of Use.” This application is also incorporated hereinin its entirety by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This section is intended to introduce various aspects of the art, whichmay be associated with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.This discussion is believed to assist in providing a framework tofacilitate a better understanding of particular aspects of the presentdisclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that this sectionshould be read in this light, and not necessarily as admissions of priorart.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to pipe support structures forholding joints of pipe or sections of pipeline above a ground surface.More specifically, the invention relates to a pipe support system thatis adjustable so as to accommodate pipe joints having varied outerdiameters.

Technology in the Field of the Invention

Pipeline transport involves the transportation of fluids. Such fluidsmay include brine, potable water or sewage. Such fluids may also includeliquid hydrocarbons, hydrocarbons in gaseous state, refinedhydrocarbons, or components separated from produced hydrocarbons such assulfuric components and carbon dioxide.

Pipelines are made up of a series of pipe joints connected end to end.In many cases, pipelines are installed above ground. Such elevatedpipelines are frequently supported by a series of stanchions (also knownas pipe support stands) that are spaced apart along a length of thepipeline. These stanchions rise from the ground to support the pipelinea predetermined distance above the ground.

During use, the pipe joints along a pipeline will experiencefluctuations in temperature. This is due to a combination of changes inambient outdoor temperature and changes in the temperature of the fluidsbeing transported. Temperature fluctuations will inevitably causeportions of the pipeline to expand and contract. Some temperaturefluctuations will occur abruptly, for example, over a matter of hours.This may occur due to short term changes in weather or due to the24-hour solar cycle. Other changes may occur over longer periods oftime, for example, due to changes in season or changes in fluidcomposition.

As a practical matter, the temperature fluctuations experienced along apipeline are non-uniform across the length of the pipeline. This leadsto a situation where some portions of the pipeline will expand orcontract axially to a greater degree than other portions. This, in turn,causes frictional wear as the pipeline rubs against the pipe supportstructure.

Pipeline stanchions may incorporate bearing surfaces that permit theoverlying pipeline to slide relative to the stanchion. Beneficially,this can reduce the occurrence of bending, buckling, and jumping causedby an expanding or contracting pipe. For example, a pair of aluminum orpolished stainless steel plates may be welded to the bottom of a pipeshoe and the top of a pipe stanchion, to face one another during use andto permit 360 degrees of relative movement as well as axial movementbetween the stanchion and pipeline. In other examples, one of the platesmay be replaced with a or ceramic or a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)plate.

In any instance, it is necessary to monitor the condition of pipesupport structures to ensure that the bearing surfaces are in goodcondition. Unfortunately, replacing bearing plates is time consuming andexpensive. Further, each pipeline will require unique bearing plates,depending on pipe size. In this respect, one of the problems commonlyassociated with pipe support structures is that each set of supports istypically made for a specifically sized pipe, thereby limiting use.

Therefore, a need exists for an improved pipe support system for holdinga pipe above a ground surface, wherein the bearing plate can be easilyinstalled, and then later be easily removed and replaced. A need furtherexists for a pipe support system that may be adjusted so as toaccommodate pipe joints or sections of a pipeline having varied outerdiameters. Still further, a need exists for a pipe support structurethat allows for longitudinal movement of the pipe once it is set ontothe pipe support structure, but at low cost. Finally, a need exists forbearing plates that are configured to gravitationally wick away water.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A pipe support system is first provided herein. In one aspect, the pipesupport system comprises a first wedge block and a second wedge block.Each of the first and second wedge blocks comprises a base. Each basehas an inside wall and an outside wall, wherein the outside wall istaller than the inside wall.

Each of the first and second wedge blocks also has an angled topsurface. The angled top surface extends from the outside wall to theinside wall. The angled top surfaces face each other and are configuredto support a joint or section of pipe along an outer diameter of thepipe. Preferably, the top surface of each of the first and second wedgeblocks is at an angle of between 20° and 40°. More preferably, the angleof each top surface is about 30°, creating a tangent line at the pipesurface.

Each of the first and second wedge blocks also includes at least onethrough-opening. The through-openings extend through each of the insidewall and the outside wall, with the respective through-openings beingaligned.

In addition, the pipe support system includes at least one threaded bar.Each threaded bar is configured to extend through the alignedthrough-openings in each of the first wedge block and the second wedgeblock. The pipe support system is configured such that a rotation of thethreaded bar in a first direction will draw the first and second wedgeblocks inward towards each other, while rotation of the threaded bar ina second opposite direction will allow the first and second wedge blocksto be moved outward from each other.

Preferably, the at least one threaded bar comprises two threaded barsplaced in parallel relation. In this instance, the alignedthrough-openings along the inside and outside walls of each of the firstand second wedge blocks comprise:

-   -   first aligned through-openings disposed proximate the first end        of the respective wedge blocks, and    -   second aligned through-openings disposed proximate the second        end of the respective wedge blocks.

In one embodiment, the pipe support system further comprises:

-   -   a first nut threadedly secured onto an end of a first of the        threaded bars; and    -   a second nut threadedly secured over an opposite end of a second        of the threaded bars.

In this instance, each of the first nut and the second nut abuts anouter surface of the outside wall of a respective wedge block.“Rotating” the threaded bars may comprise relative rotation between thethreaded bars and their respective nuts.

In one aspect, the pipe support system further comprises a planar cap.Specifically, a planar cap resides on the angled top surface of each ofthe first and second wedge blocks. In this instance, each of the planarcaps comprises corrugations dimensioned to gravitationally wick awaywater. This prevents water from building up along the outer diameter ofthe pipe, causing corrosion. Preferably, the corrugations on eachcorrugated cap are oriented transverse to the major axis of the planarcap.

In a preferred embodiment, each of the corrugated caps comprises:

-   -   a first side configured to land on a top of an outside wall;    -   a shoulder along the first side configured to wrap over the top        of the outside wall;    -   a second side configured to land on a top of an inside wall; and    -   a shoulder along the second side configured to wrap over the top        of the inside wall.

In one aspect, the corrugated caps are the angled top surfaces of thewedge blocks. In another aspect, the corrugated caps fit onto the baseover the angled top surfaces.

An outer surface of the inside wall may comprise a notch. Reciprocally,the shoulder along the second side of the corrugated cap comprises a lipthat is dimensioned to snap-lock into the notch. This permits thecorrugated caps to be quickly snap-locked into place. This also permitsremoval and replacement of the corrugated caps after a period of wear.

The pipe support system may further include a base plate. The base platehas opposing parallel sides, or edges. In this embodiment, the polygonalbase of each of the first and second wedge blocks may comprise a firstend and an opposing second end. The first and the second opposing endsare configured to straddle the opposing parallel edges of the baseplate. In this way, the wedge blocks are laterally secured or stabilizedas the first and second wedge blocks are moved inwardly and outwardly inresponse to rotation of the threaded bars. More importantly, the wedgeblocks are stabilized during periods of thermal expansion/contraction ofthe supported pipe.

A method of supporting a section of pipe is also provided herein. In oneembodiment, the method first comprises providing a pipe support system.The pipe support system may be in accordance with the pipe supportsystem described above in its various embodiments. For example, the pipesupport system may include:

-   -   a first wedge block and a second wedge block, wherein each of        the first and second wedge blocks comprises a base and an angled        top surface,    -   at least one through-opening through each of the first and        second wedge blocks, wherein the respective through-openings are        aligned, and    -   at least one threaded bar configured to extend through aligned        through-openings in each of the first wedge block and the second        wedge block.

The method also includes determining a spacing between the first wedgeblock and the second wedge block in order to support a joint or sectionof pipe having a determined outer diameter. The method then includesrotating each of the threaded bars in order to provide for thedetermined spacing.

In a preferred arrangement, each of the threaded bars may be rotated ina first direction to draw the first and second wedge blocks inwardtowards each other. To accomplish this, a nut may be used at an end ofeach threaded bar, with the nut abutting the outside wall of a wedgeblock. Reciprocally, each of the threaded bars may be rotated in asecond opposite direction to allow the first and second wedge blocks tobe moved outward from each other. To accomplish this, a nut mayoptionally be used at an end of each threaded bar, with the nut abuttingthe inside wall of a wedge block.

The method further comprises placing the joint or section of pipe ontothe pipe support system. In this way the pipe is supported above aground surface.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the present inventions can be betterunderstood, certain illustrations, charts and/or flow charts areappended hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the drawingsillustrate only selected embodiments of the inventions and are thereforenot to be considered limiting of scope, for the inventions may admit toother equally effective embodiments and applications.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the pipe support system of the presentinvention, in one embodiment.

FIG. 1B is another perspective view of the pipe support system. Here,parts of the pipe support system are shown in exploded-apart relation.

FIG. 2 is an end view of the pipe support system of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3A is a front view of a wedge block as may be used in connectionwith the pipe support system of FIGS. 1A and 1B. In this view, acorrugated cap is not employed on the wedge block.

FIG. 3B is another front view of one of the two wedge blocks of FIGS. 1Aand 1B. Here, a corrugated cap is placed on the wedge block,facilitating the movement of water or moisture away from a pipe.

FIG. 4A is an end view of the wedge block of FIG. 3B, in one embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the wedge block of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is an enlarged view of portion “C” of FIG. 4B, show aninterlocking relation between the corrugated cap and an upper insidesurface of the wedge block.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the corrugated cap of FIGS. 1B and 3B,in one embodiment.

FIG. 5B is an end view of the corrugated cap of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a top view of the corrugated cap of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a first wedge block and corrugated capof FIGS. 1A and 1B, seen from a front angle.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a second wedge block and corrugated capof FIGS. 1A and 1B, seen from a rear angle.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a spacer as may be used with the pipesupport system of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a pipe as may be supported by the pipesupport system of FIGS. 1A and 1B. Illustrative tangent lines areprovided, intended to represent possible configurations of angled caps.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

The novel features characteristic of the embodiments of the presentapplication are set forth in the appended claims. However, theembodiments themselves and further objectives and advantages thereof,will best be understood by reference to the following detaileddescription when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,wherein:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the pipe support system 100 of thepresent invention, in one embodiment. FIG. 1B is another perspectiveview of the pipe support system 100. Here, parts of the pipe supportsystem 100 are shown in exploded-apart relation for illustrativepurposes. The pipe support system 100 will be generally described withreference to FIGS. 1A and 1B together.

The pipe support system 100 first includes a pair of wedge blocks. Theseare denoted as a first wedge block 110 a and a second wedge block 110 b.Each wedge block 110 has an inside wall 114 and an outside wall 116. Inaddition, each wedge block 110 has an angled top surface 118. The topsurfaces 118 slope inwardly from a top of the outside wall 116 to a topof the inside wall 114.

The wedge blocks 110 a, 110 b also offer end walls 112. Together, theend walls 112, the inside walls 114 and the outside walls 116 form apolygonal base for each of the respective wedge blocks 110 a, 110 b.

In the arrangement of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the wedge blocks 110 a, 110 b arehollow bodies. This is beneficial in that less material is required forfabrication. However, it is understood that each base may alternativelybe a substantially solid block.

In a preferred arrangement, the wedge blocks 110 a, 110 b are fabricatedfrom a metal such as ductile iron. Alternatively, a cementitious orhardened polycarbonate material may be used. In the event technology sodevelops, wedge blocks may be formed through an additive manufacturingprocess.

The wedge blocks 110 a, 110 b each offer aligned through-openings 115.For each wedge block 110, a through-opening 115 is provided in theinside wall 114 and in the outside wall 116. Preferably, each wedgeblock 110 offers two pairs of aligned through-openings 115. This is truewhether the base is hollow or is otherwise solid.

The pipe support system 100 also preferably includes a cap 120. Each cap120 is designed to snap-fit onto the angled top surface 118 (asdiscussed in further detail below). Each cap 120 is fabricated from apolycarbonate material, polyurethane or a synthetic thermoplastic linearpolyamide (or nylon). Nylon is preferred as it offers a combination ofhigh strength and relatively low friction. One suitable example of anylon material is Nylatron® GSM, available from Quadrant EPP USA Inc. ofReading, Pa. Nylatron® GSM contains finely divided particles ofmolybdenum disulphide (MoS₂) to enhance load bearing capabilities whilemaintaining the impact resistance inherent to nylon. Other Nylatron®products may also be considered. However, it is preferred that whateverplastic or other material is used, it should preferably have UVstabilizers and be non-conductive.

It is noted that the caps 120 each include a plurality of channels 125.The channels 125 are configured to permit water to flow under a pipe andoff of the wedge blocks 110. This prevents corrosion of the pipe due towater build-up on the wedge blocks 110, such as may be caused by rain.For this reason, the caps 120 may be referred to as corrugated caps.

The channels 125 of the caps 120 may be of any design so long as theyfacilitate the gravitational wicking away of water. Preferably, thechannels 125 are oriented transverse to a longitudinal axis of theangled cap 120.

The pipe support system 100 additionally includes at least one threadedbar 130. In the arrangement of FIGS. 1A and 1B, a pair of threaded bars130 is employed. Each threaded bar 130 comprises opposing threaded ends132. In one aspect, each bar 130 is a so-called all-thread.

The threaded ends 132 are configured to receive a nut 135. Each nut 135may be tightened down against the outside wall 116 of the wedge blocks110 a, 110 b in order to adjust the spacing. In addition, a second nut135 may be placed along each threaded bar 130 to abut an inside wall114. Such a second nut 135 is depicted in the end view of FIG. 2,discussed below.

The operator may rotate the threaded bars 130 (relative to the nuts 135or, alternatively, relative to threads in the through-openings 115) in afirst direction in order to draw the wedge blocks 110 inward, or rotatethe threaded bars 130 the opposite direction to move the wedge blocks110 outward. It is understood here that the term “rotate” includesrelative rotation such as rotating the nuts 135 to provide part of thespacing adjustments.

FIG. 2 is an end view of the pipe support system 100 of FIG. 1A. In thisview, a pipe 200 has been set upon the two opposing wedge blocks 110 a,110 b. The wedge blocks 110 a, 110 b are spaced apart in order toaccommodate the outer diameter of the pipe 200. In operation, the closerthe blocks 110 get to each other, the higher the pipe 200 rises abovethe ground surface or above a base plate 140.

It is understood that the present inventions are not limited by the typeof pipe employed. The pipe 200 may be part of a pipeline used to conveyfluids such as produced water, crude oil, brine, potable water, sewageor hydrocarbon gases. Produced hydrocarbons may be transported from thefield into a gathering facility, a treatment facility or a refineryusing the pipe 200. Processed fluids may be transported from a treatmentfacility or a refinery using the pipe 200.

In any instance, the pipe support system 100 may also include anoptional base plate 140. In the arrangement of FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2, thebase plate 140 represents a rectangular plate. Preferably, the plate 140is fabricated from steel although it could also be a concrete pad orother sturdy foundational material. Optionally, the base plate 140 maybe secured to a concrete structure using anchors (not shown).

The plate 140 includes opposing edges 142. The edges 142 are linear andare parallel to one another. The wedge blocks 110 and supported pipe 200are configured to rest on the base plate 140. Of interest, a recessedarea 117 is preserved in the middle of the wedge blocks 110. Therecessed areas 117 allow the wedge blocks 110 to straddle the base plate140. This stabilizes the wedge blocks 110, preventing them fromshifting, that is, moving forward or backward, during thermal expansionthat takes place within the pipe 200. The result is that the corrugatedcaps 120 end up serving as wear plates.

To enable the wedge blocks 110 to straddle the base plate 140, the endwalls 112 are configured to have feet 111. The feet 111 frictionallyreside along the respective edges 142 of the base plate 140.

FIG. 3A is a front view of a wedge block 310A as may be used inconnection with the pipe support system 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B. Thewedge block 310A includes opposing end walls 312A. An inside wall 314and an outside wall (not visible) make up the base. Through-openings 115are also shown.

The wedge block 310A of FIG. 3A is intended to represent a solid blockof material, subject of course to the aligned through-openings 115 whichaccommodate the threaded bars 130. The wedge block 310A is alsopresented without the angled, removable cap 120. Thus, an angled uppersurface 318 is shown.

FIG. 3B is another front view of a wedge block 310B. In this instance,the wedge block 310B is in accordance with the two wedge blocks 110 a,110 b of FIGS. 1A and 1B. In this embodiment, a corrugated cap 120 isplaced on the wedge block 310B. Channels 125 along the corrugated cap120 facilitate the movement of water or moisture away from the pipe 200.

FIG. 4A is an end view of the wedge block 310B of FIG. 3B, in oneembodiment. FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the wedge block 310B ofFIG. 3B. From these figures it is observed that the corrugated cap 120has a lower end 124 and an upper end 126. The lower end 124 wraps aroundthe top of the inside wall 114 while the upper end 126 wraps around thetop of the outside wall 116.

FIG. 4C is an enlarged view of portion “C” of FIG. 4B. This shows aninterlocking relation between the corrugated cap 120 and the walls 114,116 of the wedge block 310B. The lower end 124 of the corrugated cap 120includes an inwardly facing lip 113. The lip 113 is dimensioned toreleasably lock into a notch 313 placed along the front 114 of the wedgeblock 310B. The configuration of the lower 124 and upper 126 ends alongwith the notch 313 allow the corrugated cap 120 to snap-lock into placeon the walls 114, 116.

It is noted that over time the corrugated cap 120 and its channels 125will experience wear. This is due to a combination of weathering andfriction. The friction comes from movement of the pipe 200 due tothermal expansion and contraction. In the event a corrugated cap 120needs to be replaced, it can simply be snapped or pried off of the walls114, 116. If necessary, the cap 120 can just be sacrificed through useof a hammer, and readily replaced at low cost.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a corrugated cap 520 as may be used inthe pipe support system of FIGS. 1A and 1B. FIG. 5B is an end view ofthe corrugated cap 520 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5C is a top view of thecorrugated cap 520 of FIG. 5A. In FIGS. 5A through 5C, a plurality ofparallel channels 525 are seen.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a first wedge block 110A and corrugatedcap 120A of FIGS. 1A and 1B, seen from a front angle. FIG. 6B is aperspective view of a second wedge block 110 b and corrugated cap 120 bof FIGS. 1A and 1B, seen from a rear angle. The first 110A and second110 b wedge blocks are designed to face each other in order to receivethe pipe 200.

As an additional and optional feature of the pipe support system 100, aspacer may be provided. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a spacer 700 asmay optionally be used with the pipe support system 100 of the presentinvention. The spacer 700 is a short section of pipe or other tubularbody.

The spacer 700 is dimensioned to reside along a threaded bar 130intermediate the two wedge blocks 110 a, 110 b. In this respect, thecylindrical opening (or inner diameter) 705 that extends through thespacer 700 is dimensioned to receive the threaded bar 130. The spacer700 allows for the user to precisely set the distance between the wedgeblocks 110 a, 110 b, thereby making the support structure 100appropriately sized for different sized pipes.

In one aspect, the angle of the corrugated caps 120 is between 20° and40°. More preferably, the angle of the caps is at 30°. A mathematicaltable may be provided to the user, correlating the size of the pipe 200to the desired spacer 700 length in order to optimize the position ofthe pipe 200 on the corrugated caps 120, correlated to the angle of thecaps 120.

Ideally, the point at which the pipe 200 touches the corrugated caps 110is a tangent line, meaning that the angle of the tangent line and theangle of the corrugated caps 110 is within a few degrees of each other.The mathematical table will inform the user of the needed spacer lengthto achieve the tangent line. Of course, if the corrugated caps 120 aredesigned to have a different angle, then the spacer lengths on themathematical table will need to be tweaked.

FIG. 8 is a presentation of a pipe 200 having a radius “R.” Two radiilines “R” are indicated. In addition, a pair of tangent lines 820 isshown. The tangent lines 820 correspond to locations and angles of thecorrugated caps 120, in one embodiment. An angle β is provided to show aseparation of the two radii “R” lines.

An additional line “B” is provided. Line B is a vertical line whichbisects angle β. Further, a horizontal line 700L is provided, connectingtangent lines 820 and also bisected by line B. Mathematically, line 700Ldepicts a length of spacer 700. Thus, for a pipe 200 having radius “R”,the operator would select a spacer 700 having length 700L.

FIG. 8 also depicts line G-G, in dashed form. Line G-G is an imaginaryhorizontal line drawn at the point where the two tangent lines 820would, in theory, intersect if the corrugated caps 120 were ofsufficient length. The angles γ formed between lines 820 and line G-Gare each ½ of angle β.

Using the pipe support system 100 described above, a method ofsupporting a section of pipe is also provided herein. In one embodiment,the method first comprises providing a pipe support system. The pipesupport system may be in accordance with the pipe support system 100described above in its various embodiments. For example, the pipesupport system may include:

-   -   a first wedge block and a second wedge block, wherein each of        the first and second wedge blocks comprises a base and an angled        top surface, with the angled top surfaces facing one another    -   at least one through-opening through each of the first and        second wedge blocks, wherein the respective through-openings are        aligned, and    -   at least one threaded bar configured to extend through aligned        through-openings in each of the first wedge block and the second        wedge block.

The method also includes determining a spacing between the first wedgeblock and the second wedge block in order to support a joint or sectionof pipe having an outer diameter. The method then includes rotating eachof the threaded bars in order to provide for the determined spacing. Itis understood that for purposes of the claims, the term “rotating eachof the threaded bars” includes relative rotation, such as rotating a nutsecured to a threaded bar.

In a preferred arrangement, each of the threaded bars may be rotated ina first direction to draw the first and second wedge blocks inwardtowards each other. Reciprocally, each of the threaded bars may berotated in a second opposite direction to allow the first and secondwedge blocks to be moved outward from each other.

The method further comprises placing the joint or section of pipe ontothe pipe support system. In this way the pipe is supported above aground surface.

In one embodiment, the method also includes securing a separate bearingplate onto each of the wedge blocks. The bearing plate is a planar capresiding on the angled top surface of each of the first and second wedgeblocks. Each of the planar caps comprises corrugations or channelsdimensioned to gravitationally wick away water to prevent water frombuilding up along the outer diameter of the pipe.

Each of the corrugated caps comprises:

-   -   a first side configured to land on a top of an outside wall of a        base;    -   a shoulder along the first side configured to wrap over the top        of the outside wall;    -   a second side configured to land on a top of an inside wall of        the base; and    -   a shoulder along the second side configured to wrap over the top        of the inside wall.

An outer surface of the inside wall comprises a notch. At the same time,the shoulder along the second side comprises a lip that is dimensionedto snap-lock into the notch. Securing the bearing plate comprisessnapping the bearing plate onto the base that forms the respective wedgeblock.

The method may further comprise replacing each of the corrugated capsafter a period of wear. Replacing may mean unsnapping the bearing plateoff of the base before snap-locking a new bearing plate onto the base.Alternatively, replacing may mean breaking the bearing plate, such asthrough hammering before snap-locking a new bearing plate onto the base.Thus, the corrugated cap is a sacrificial element as a result of use.

Finally, a method of replacing a bearing plate for a pipe supportstructure is provided herein. In one aspect, the method first comprisesproviding a pipe support system. The pipe support system is structure inaccordance with the pipe support system 100 described above in itsvarious embodiments. This includes a first wedge block and a secondwedge block, wherein each of the first and second wedge blocks comprisesa base.

The method also includes installing a bearing plate onto each of thefirst and second wedge blocks. This is done through a snap-lock fit.Each of the bearing plates comprises corrugations dimensioned togravitationally wick away water to prevent water from building up alongthe outer diameter of pipe. In addition, each of the bearing platesresides at an angle of between 20° and 40° over the respective wedgeblocks, wherein the angles are inwardly-facing.

Additionally, the method comprises determining a spacing between thefirst wedge block and the second wedge block. This is done in order tosupport a joint or section of pipe having an outer diameter. The methodthen includes placing the joint or section of pipe onto the pipe supportsystem, thereby supporting the pipe above a ground surface.

After a period of time the bearing plates will experience wear. Themethod then includes removing the bearing plates from the respectivewedge blocks. Then, again using a snap-lock fit, the method includesinstalling a replacement bearing plate onto each of the first and secondwedge blocks. Each of the replacement bearing plates also comprisescorrugations dimensioned to gravitationally wick away water to preventwater from building up along the outer diameter of pipe. In addition,each of the replacement bearing plates also resides at an angle ofbetween 20° and 40° over the respective wedge blocks.

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as theembodiments may be modified and practiced in different but equivalentmanners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of theteachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particularembodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all suchvariations are considered within the scope and spirit of theapplication.

In the claims which follow, the word “comprising” is used in itsinclusive sense and does not exclude other elements being present. Theindefinite articles “a” and “an” before a claim feature do not excludemore than one of the feature being present. Each one of the individualfeatures described here may be used in one or more embodiments and isnot, by virtue only of being described here, to be construed asessential to all embodiments as defined by the claims.

I claim:
 1. A pipe support system, comprising: a first wedge block and asecond wedge block, wherein each of the first and second wedge blockscomprises: a base having an inside wall and an outside wall, wherein theoutside wall is taller than the inside wall; an angled top surfaceextending from the outside wall to the inside wall; and at least onethrough-opening through each of the inside wall and the outside wall,wherein the respective through-openings are aligned; at least onethreaded bar configured to extend through aligned through-openings ineach of the first wedge block and the second wedge block such that arotation of the threaded bar in a first direction will draw the firstand second wedge blocks inward towards each other while rotation of thethreaded bar in a second opposite direction will allow the first andsecond wedge blocks to be moved outward from each other; wherein theangled top surfaces face one another and are configured to support ajoint or section of pipe along an outer diameter of the pipe.
 2. Thepipe support system of claim 1, wherein the top surface of each of thefirst and second wedge blocks is at an angle of between 20° and 40°. 3.The pipe support system of claim 2, wherein: the angled top surface ofeach of the first and second wedge blocks comprises a substantiallyplanar cap; and each of the planar caps comprises channels dimensionedto gravitationally wick away water to prevent water from building upalong the outer diameter of the pipe, forming a corrugated cap.
 4. Thepipe support system of claim 3, wherein: the base of each of the firstand second wedge blocks is a polygonal base; each of the first andsecond wedge blocks comprises opposing end walls that serve as feet forthe wedge blocks; and the channels on each corrugated cap are orientedtransverse to the major axis of the planar cap.
 5. The pipe supportsystem of claim 4, wherein each of the corrugated caps comprises: afirst side configured to land on a top of an outside wall; a shoulderalong the first side configured to wrap over the top of the outsidewall; a second side configured to land on a top of an inside wall; and ashoulder along the second side configured to wrap over the top of theinside wall.
 6. The pipe support system of claim 5, wherein: an outersurface of the inside wall comprises a notch; and the shoulder along thesecond side of each corrugated cap comprises a lip that is dimensionedto snap-lock into the notch.
 7. The pipe support system of claim 5,wherein: the pipe support system further comprises a base plate; thebase plate has opposing parallel edges; the feet of each polygonal baseare configured to straddle the opposing parallel edges of the baseplate, thereby laterally securing the first and second wedge blocks asthey are moved inwardly and outwardly in response to rotation of the atleast one threaded bar.
 8. The pipe support system of claim 7, wherein:the at least one threaded bar comprises two threaded bars; the alignedthrough-openings along the inside and outside walls of each of the firstand second wedge blocks comprise: first aligned through-openingsdisposed proximate the first end of the respective wedge blocks, andsecond aligned through-openings disposed proximate the second end of therespective wedge blocks.
 9. The pipe support system of claim 8, furthercomprising: a first nut threadedly secured onto an end of a first of thethreaded bars; and a second nut threadedly secured over an end of asecond of the threaded bars; and wherein each of the first nut and thesecond nut abuts an outer surface of the outside wall of a respectivewedge block.
 10. The pipe support system of claim 8, wherein: an outersurface of each inside wall comprises a notch; and the shoulder alongthe second side of each corrugated cap comprises a lip that isdimensioned to snap-lock into a notch, permitting the corrugated cap tobe replaced after a period of wear.
 11. The pipe support system of claim1, wherein each of the corrugated caps is fabricated from anon-conductive material.
 12. The pipe support system of claim 11,wherein each corrugated cap is fabricated from polyurethane or ductileiron.
 13. The pipe support system of claim 11, wherein: the base of eachof the first and second wedge blocks has a substantially hollowinterior; and each of the first and second wedge blocks is fabricatedfrom a non-conductive material.
 14. The pipe support system of claim 1,wherein the base of each of the first and second wedge blocks defines asolid block of material.
 15. The pipe support system of claim 1, furthercomprising: a tubular spacer residing around each of the threaded bars,configured to hold the first wedge block and the second wedge block apredetermined distance apart.
 16. A method of supporting a section ofpipe, comprising: providing a pipe support system, comprising: a firstwedge block and a second wedge block, wherein each of the first andsecond wedge blocks comprises a base and an angled top surface, at leastone through-opening through each of the first and second wedge blocks,wherein the respective through-openings are aligned, and at least onethreaded bar configured to extend through aligned through-openings ineach of the first wedge block and the second wedge block; determining aspacing between the first wedge block and the second wedge block inorder to support a joint or section of pipe having an outer diameter;rotating each of the threaded bars in order to provide for thedetermined spacing; and placing the joint or section of pipe onto theangled top surfaces, thereby supporting the pipe above a ground surface.17. The method of claim 16, wherein each of the threaded bars may berotated in a first direction to draw the first and second wedge blocksinward towards each other, and may be rotated in a second oppositedirection to allow the first and second wedge blocks to be moved outwardfrom each other.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein rotating each ofthe threaded bars comprises rotating a nut located at an end of each ofthe threaded bars relative to the respective threaded bar.
 19. Themethod of claim 17, wherein: the base of each of the first and secondwedge blocks comprises a polygonal base having an inside wall and anoutside wall, wherein the outside wall is taller than the inside wall;the angled top surface of each of the first and second wedge blocksextends from the outside wall to the inside wall; and angled top surfaceof each of the first and second wedge blocks is at an angle of between20° and 40°.
 20. The method of claim 20, wherein: the angled top surfaceof each of the first and second wedge blocks comprises a planar cap; andeach of the planar caps comprises channels dimensioned togravitationally wick away water to prevent water from building up alongthe outer diameter of the pipe, forming a corrugated cap.
 21. The methodof claim 20, wherein each of the corrugated caps comprises: a first sideconfigured to land on a top of an outside wall of a base; a shoulderalong the first side configured to wrap over the top of the outsidewall; a second side configured to land on a top of an inside wall of thebase; and a shoulder along the second side configured to wrap over thetop of the inside wall; and wherein: an outer surface of the inside wallof each wedge block comprises a notch; and the shoulder along the secondside of each corrugated cap comprises a lip that is dimensioned tosnap-lock into the notch.
 22. The method of claim 12, furthercomprising: replacing each of the corrugated caps after a period ofwear.
 23. The method of claim 22, wherein: the pipe support systemfurther comprises a base plate; the base plate has opposing paralleledges; the polygonal base of each of the first and second wedge blockscomprises a first end and an opposing second end, wherein; and themethod further comprises placing the first and second wedge blocks ontothe base such that the first and second opposing ends of each of thewedge blocks straddles the opposing parallel edges of the base plate,thereby laterally securing the first and second wedge blocks as they aremoved inwardly and outwardly in response to rotation of the at least onethreaded bar.
 24. The method of claim 23, wherein: the at least onethreaded bar comprises two threaded bars; the aligned through-openingsalong the inside and outside walls of each of the first and second wedgeblocks comprise: first aligned through-openings disposed proximate thefirst end of the respective wedge blocks, and second alignedthrough-openings disposed proximate the second end of the respectivewedge blocks.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the pipe supportsystem further comprises: a first nut threadedly secured onto an end ofa first of the threaded bars; and a second nut threadedly secured overan end of a second of the threaded bars; and wherein each of the firstnut and the second nut abuts an outer surface of the outside wall of arespective wedge block; and wherein adjusting the spacing of the firstwedge block and the second wedge block further comprises rotating thethreaded bars relative to the respective nuts.
 26. The method of claim20, wherein each of the corrugated caps is fabricated from anon-conductive material.
 27. The method of claim 20, further comprising:determining an optimum spacing between the first and second wedge blocksbased upon (i) the angle of each of the first and second wedge blocks,and (ii) the outer diameter of the supported pipe.
 28. A method ofreplacing a bearing plate for a pipe support structure, comprising:providing a pipe support system comprising a first wedge block and asecond wedge block, wherein each of the first and second wedge blockscomprises a base; using a snap-lock fit, installing a bearing plate ontoeach of the first and second wedge blocks, wherein each of the bearingplates comprises corrugations dimensioned to gravitationally wick awaywater to prevent water from building up along the outer diameter of apipe, and wherein each of the bearing plates resides at an angle ofbetween 20° and 40° over the respective wedge blocks; determining aspacing between the first wedge block and the second wedge block inorder to support a joint or section of pipe having an outer diameter;placing the joint or section of pipe onto the bearing plates, therebysupporting the joint or section of pipe above a ground surface; after aperiod of time, removing the bearing plates from the respective wedgeblocks; and using a snap-lock fit, installing a replacement bearingplate onto each of the first and second wedge blocks, wherein each ofthe replacement bearing plates also comprises corrugations dimensionedto gravitationally wick away water to prevent water from building upalong the outer diameter of pipe, and wherein each of the replacementbearing plates also resides at an angle of between 20° and 40° over therespective wedge blocks.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein: each ofthe wedge blocks comprises an inside wall and an outside wall, togetherconfigured to support a respective bearing plate; the outside wall ofeach of the first and second wedge blocks is taller than the insidewall, forming the angle; an outer surface of each of the inside wallscomprises a notch; each of the corrugated caps comprises: a first sideconfigured to land on a top of an outside wall; a shoulder along thefirst side configured to wrap over the top of the outside wall; a secondside configured to land on a top of an inside wall; and a shoulder alongthe second side configured to wrap over the top of the inside wall; andthe shoulder along the second side of each bearing plate comprises a lipthat is dimensioned to snap-lock into the notch.
 30. The method of claim29, wherein: the pipe support further comprises: a pair ofthrough-openings through each of the first and second wedge blocks,wherein the respective through-openings are aligned, two threaded barsconfigured to extend through aligned through-openings in each of thefirst wedge block and the second wedge block; and the method furthercomprises rotating each of the threaded bars in order to provide for thedetermined spacing between the first and second wedge blocks.
 31. Themethod of claim 30, wherein the angle of each of the corrugated caps istuned to form a tangent line with the pipe after the spacing between thefirst wedge block and the second wedge block is determined and uponreceiving the pipe.